The Seeker is looking for a non-allergenic, plant-based alternative protein to maintain foam stability and product functionality, as Sodium Caseinate does, after freeze-thawing and over refrigerated storage for whipped topping products.

This Theoretical Challenge requires only a written proposal.

Overview

Non-dairy toppings and creamers are prepared with Sodium Caseinate as this ingredient provides great stability to the aerated foams by coating the air cells and further slowing down coalescence of air bubbles. However, Sodium Caseinate is an allergen. Considering the current consumer interests and the potential risk of food allergies, the Seeker is looking for a non-allergenic, plant-based protein to replace Sodium Caseinate while maintaining the foam stability over refrigerated storage.

This is a Theoretical Challenge that requires only a written proposal to be submitted. The Challenge award will be contingent upon theoretical evaluation of the proposal by the Seeker.

To receive an award, the Solvers will have to transfer to the Seeker their exclusive Intellectual Property (IP) rights to the solution.

Submissions to this Challenge must be received by 11:59 PM (US Eastern Time) on December 15, 2018.

Late submissions will not be considered.

What is InnoCentive?

InnoCentive is the global innovation marketplace where creative minds solve some of the world's most important problems for cash awards up to $1 million. Commercial, governmental and humanitarian organizations engage with InnoCentive to solve problems that can impact humankind in areas ranging from the environment to medical advancements.

What is a Theoretical IP Transfer Challenge?

An InnoCentive Theoretical Challenge builds upon an idea but is not yet a proof of concept. A solution to a Theoretical Challenge will solidify the Solver's concept with detailed descriptions, specifications and requirements necessary to bringing a good idea closer to becoming an actual product or service.

This Challenge is a Theoretical-IP Transfer Challenge, meaning that Solvers must relinquish all rights to the Intellectual Property (IP) for which they are awarded. By contrast, Theoretical-Licensing means that the Seeker is requesting non-exclusive rights to use the winning solution. For these forms of a Theoretical Challenge, Solvers that do not win retain the rights to their solution after the evaluation period is complete. The Seeker retains no rights to any IP not awarded.